Blizzard Expected To Cost Yakima Valley Dairy Industry Millions

The more than 1,800 dairy cows that died in a blizzard in the lower Yakima Valley a few weeks ago will cost the dairy an estimated $4 million, not including the lost production.  Farm Service Agency program specialist Gerri Richter told Capital Press that seven dairy farms have given notices of loss to the agency’s office in Yakima, and more are expected to report soon.  The dairy producers must give notice within 30 days to prepare to apply for the agency’s Livestock Indemnity Program, which pays out at 75% of market value.

Steve George, an issues manager for the Washington dairy federation, said up to 15 farms near Sunnyside lost cows, with one dairy reported to have lost about 600 cows in the February 9^th storm.

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